Stomatitis is a generalized inflammation of the mouth. It can include the linings of the mouth (oral mucosa), lips, tongue, and palate. It has numerous causes, including infectious, allergic, and irritant induced.
Causes of Stomatitis
Stomatitis can be caused by many conditions. The use of chemotherapy drugs frequently causes stomatitis. Contact stomatitis may be localized or diffuse. It can occur from reactions to metals in repaired teeth or in response to mouth wash, gun, food, etc. Irritant stomatitis usually occurs in response to more caustic chemicals or drugs. These include such things as gentian violet, potassium chloride and pancreatic extracts. Allergic stomatitis can occur from a number of antibiotics, sedatives, analgesics, antimalarial drugs and others. Candida, or fungal infections, can lead to diffuse stomatitis. Stomatitis is frequently related to infections with herpes or cankers. It can also occur from autoimmune disorders, vitamin deficiencies and certain forms of anemia.
Signs and Symptoms of Stomatitis
The specific types of symptoms that will occur from stomatitis will depend on their underlying cause. In general, stomatitis produces swelling, redness and tenderness (or pain) in the lining of the mouth (oral mucosa). The response may be localized or may be generalized. The swelling and redness of the oral mucosa may give rise to ulcers. Ulcerations may make it painful to eat or drink and lead to dehydration or malnutrition. Bleeding may occur in the mouth, especially from the ulcers. Fever, irritability and lack of appetite occurs.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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